Acne is a condition that is characterized by a red rash on the skin that causes itching and irritation. It usually develops in those areas of the body that produce the most amount of oil, such as the face, back and chest. Acne generally occurs due to hormonal imbalances on the body. These fluctuating hormonal levels stimulate the oil glands of the body into producing an increased amount of oil or sebum. The sebum reaches the surface of the skin through the hair follicles or pores. This excess of oil begins to clog the pores as it attracts dead skin cells and bacteria and forms a plug, resulting in the formation of whiteheads. When the top of the plug becomes exposed, pigmentation occurs and gives the plug a black color, resulting in the formation of blackheads. In some cases, the bacteria begin to cause infection and inflammation, and also the formation of pus. This results in the formation of red tender bumps on the skin called pimples. The infection is easily spread to other areas of the skin when the pimples rupture and the accumulated debris spills out. A spread of these pimples causes acne.
Acne is very common during puberty as this is the time when many hormonal changes take place in the body. Stress can also trigger hormonal changes, thereby increasing the risk of acne. Dietary habits can also determine susceptibility to acne. This is believed to occur because the food we eat affects the level of insulin in the body. Insulin is the most important hormone in the body and regulates all the other hormones. As such fluctuations in insulin levels can affect the levels of other hormones, which may in turn stimulate the oil glands, thereby resulting in acne.
Home remedies are very effective in restricting acne and are very simple to use. The gel of fresh aloe vera leaves is very effective in treating acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Taken internally, it is also effective in cleansing the digestive tract. tea tree oil may be applied to the acne directly to restrict the spread of the bacteria and infection. Lemon juice can also be applied to the pimples to reduce the inflammation. You can even mix lemon juice with cinnamon powder and apply to the affected areas. Rubbing a clove of garlic on the pimples is effective in speeding up the healing process. Applying the juice of fresh mint leaves every night is most effective in arresting the spread of any type of skin infections, including acne.
answered by G M